· Responsibilities of the Contractor, the Engineer or Engineer’s Representative (ER), Environmental Team (ET), and the Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) under the context of EM&A;

· Project organization for the EM&A works;

· The basis for, and description of the broad approach underlying the EM&A programme;

· Details of the methodologies to be adopted, including all laboratories and analytical procedures, and details on quality assurance and quality control programme;

· The rationale on which the environmental monitoring data will be evaluated and interpreted;

· Definition of Action and Limit Levels;

· Establishment of Event and Action Plans;

· Requirements for reviewing pollution sources and working procedures required in the event of non-compliance with the environmental criteria and complaints; and

· Requirements for presentation of environmental monitoring and audit data and appropriate reporting procedures.

1.2.5 For the purpose of this manual, the ER shall refer to the Engineer as defined in the Construction Contract, in cases where the Engineer’s powers have been delegated to the ER, in accordance with the Construction Contract. The ET leader, who shall be responsible for and in charge of the ET, shall refer to the person delegated the role of executing the environmental monitoring and audit requirements.

2. Project Description

2.1 General Description of the Project

2.1.1 The FGC site is located to the southwest of Sheung Shui town centre, and the closet point of the FGC site is within 800m from MTR Sheung Shui Railway Station. The golf course is composed of three distinct 18-hole courses (the Old, New and Eden Courses, built in 1911, 1931 and 1970 respectively) set within about 170 ha of land.

2.1.2 The FGC site is currently not covered by any statutory Outline Zoning Plan. To the north, west, south and southeast of the FGC site are mainly rural areas under “Village Type Development”, “Green Belt”, “Agriculture”, “Recreation”, “Government, Institution or Community” and “Residential (Group C)” zones. To the northeast and further north across Fanling Highway, it is the Fanling/Sheung Shui New Town, of which land use zones with higher development intensity are found, such as the “Residential (Group A)” zone with a plot ratio of 5 to 7.

2.1.3 A part of the FGC site to the east of Fan Kam Road of about 32 ha (which is identified as the potential development area, or PDA) is identified for comprehensive planning and development. PDA is located to the southwest of Sheung Shui town centre, with a length of about 1.89km and width varying from a minimum of about 54m to a maximum of 358m. It is bounded by Ping Kong Road to its northeast; Po Kin Road to its north; Fan Kam Road to its northwest and west; rural settlements of Ping Kong to its east; Tai Lung Experimental Farm and a green hillock to its southeastern and southern ends.

2.1.4 In order to more specifically address the irregular-shaped site, PDA is delineated as Sub-Area 1 to Sub-Area 4. The boundary of each Sub-Area is shown in Figure 2.1and the Sub-Areas are described as follows:-

· Sub-Area 1 is located at the northernmost part of PDA, it extended up to the edge of woodland adjacent to the Fanling Raw Water Pumping Station. This piece of land is generally regular and is adjacent to high density housing development such as Cheung Lung Wai Estate;

· Sub-Area 2 is bounded by the above-mentioned woodland, which is also indicated as an ecological corridor for bypassing of species, and extended up to the existing access road of On Po in the south side. A number of species of conservation importance was recorded and there is a man-made pond in this Sub-Area to provide water source for wildlife.

· Sub-Area 3 is bounded by the existing access road of On Po in the north and the narrow edge adjacent to Tai Lung Experimental Farm at the south. This piece of land is irregular in shape and there are a number of tree clusters at the sides and in the middle of the Sub-Area; and

· Sub-Area 4 is located at the southernmost part of PDA. It is bounded by the boundary of Sub-Area 3 to the Site boundary of PDA. There are a marsh and a swampy woodland with a rare Chinese Swamp Cypress (Glyptostrobus pensilis) colony in the Sub-Area.

2.1.5 The Project explores the development potential of the PDA (a part of the FGC). The PDA and the proposed work limit of supporting infrastructure, government, institution or community facilities and open space covers about 32 ha. The proposed site formation and the associated infrastructure work to support the public housing developments comprise the followings:

(1) Site formation works;

(2) Building works (i.e. foundation works and superstructure);

(3) Slope works and other geotechnical works;

(4) Roadworks;

(5) Waterworks;

(6) Sewerage works;

(7) Drainage works;

(8) Landscaping works;

(9) Public Transport Interchange (PTI); and

(10) Other infrastructure works including laying of utilities, etc.

2.1.6 Minor road modification works is proposed to be carried out at Ping Kong Road, northeast of the PDA.

2.1.7 Associated supporting infrastructure and utilities outside the Project boundary, which are considered as part of the Project, including (i) laying of sewer to Shek Wu Hui Sewage Treatment Works; (ii) junction improvements; (iii) laying of drainage pipes and construction of flood wall; and (iv) laying of fresh watermains and flushing watermains.

2.2 Designated Project

2.2.1 The proposed Development Area has a study area of about 32 ha. It falls within Item 1 under Schedule 3 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO), i.e. "Engineering feasibility study of urban development projects with a study area covering more than 20 ha or involving a total population of more than 100,000" and is therefore a Designated Project (DP) requiring an EIA report.

2.2.2 Based on the current information, the Project does not include any individual work items that fall under Schedule 2 of the EIAO.

2.3 Implementation Programme

2.3.1 The implementation programme is summarized as below:

Table 2.5 Summary of Tentative Implementation Programme

Stage	Works Components	Time Line
Stage 1	Public Housing Development in Sub-Area 1 · Site clearance and site formation works · Construction of internal Road · Pipe works and utilities works · Construction and building works of public housing site · Construction of public transport interchange (PTI) and bus terminus	2024 - 2029
Stage 2	School Site Development in Sub-Area 1 · Site clearance and site formation works · Construction of internal Road · Pipe works and utilities works · Construction of special school	2024 - 2028
Stage 3	Associated Road Works outside PDA · Junction improvement works at Po Kin Road / Ping Kong Road · Minor road improvement works at Ping Kong Road	2024 - 2029
Stage 4	Associated Infrastructure Works outside PDA · Pipe works and utilities works	2024 - 2029
Stage 5	· Recreational cum Conservation Area in Sub-Areas 2 to 4	To be further reviewed

2.4 Construction Projects

2.4.1 The EIA has assessed the potential cumulative impacts of the Project and associated that may arise through interaction or in combination with other existing and planned development in the vicinity of the Project and associated works. A list of the tentative concurrent projects identified at this stage is summarized below:

Concurrent Project	Project Proponent	Tentative Construction Commencement	Target Operation/ Target Completion of Development
Concurrent Project	Project Proponent	Tentative Construction Commencement	Target Operation/ Target Completion of Development
Potential Housing Developments in North District - Ching Hiu Road	CEDD	2022	2030
Potential Housing Developments in North District - Tai Tau Leng	CEDD	2025	2032
North District Hospital Extension	ArchSD/ HA	2021	2030
Drainage Improvements at North District	DSD	2021	2027
Fanling Highway Widening	CEDD	2024	2031
Po Shek Wu Flyover	CEDD	2024	2029
Road Improvement Works at Fan Kam Road	HyD	N/A (a)	N/A (a)
Fanling Area 36 Phase 4 (Ching Ho Extension)	CEDD	2020	2024
Private Housing Development at Lot 4076 in D.D. 91	Private Developer	N/A ^(a)	2028
Reclaimed Water Supply to Sheung Shui and Fanling – Investigation, Design and Construction	WSD	2020	2025
Sheung Shui Lot 2RP in DD 92, Sheung Shui	Private Developer	N/A ^(a)	2023
So Kwun Po Interchange ^(b)	CEDD	2025	2030
Retrofitting of Noise Barriers on Po Shek Wu Road	EPD	2024	2028
Drainage Improvement Works in North District	DSD	N/A	N/A

Note:

(a) The commencement/ completion of construction is not available.

(b) As advised by CEDD, construction details (e.g. plant inventory) are not yet available. EIA Study will be commenced shortly in 2021.

3. Project Organization

3.1 Project Organization

3.1.1 The proposed project organization and lines of communication with respect to environmental protection works are shown in Appendix 3.1.

3.1.2 The leader of the ET shall be an independent party from the Contractor and has relevant professional qualifications, or have sufficient relevant EM&A experience subject to approval of the ER.

3.1.3 The responsibilities of respective parties are:

The Contractor

· Implement the EIA recommendations and requirements;

· Employ an ET to undertake monitoring, laboratory analysis and reporting of environmental monitoring and audit;

· Provide assistance to ET in carrying out monitoring and auditing;

· Submit proposals on mitigation measures in case of exceedances of Action and Limit Levels in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;

· Implement measures to reduce impact where Action and Limit Levels are exceeded; and

· Adhere to the agreed procedures for carrying out compliant investigation.

Environmental Team

· Set up all the required environmental monitoring stations;

· Monitor various environmental parameters as required in the EM&A Manual;

· Analyse the environmental monitoring and audit data, review the success of EM&A programme, confirm the adequacy of mitigation measures implemented and the validity of the EIA predictions, and to identify any adverse environmental impacts arising;

· Carry out site inspection to investigate and audit the Contractors’ site practice, equipment and work methodologies with respect to pollution control and environmental mitigation measures, and take proactive actions to pre-empt problems;

· Audit and prepare audit reports on the environmental monitoring data and site environmental conditions;

· Report on the environmental monitoring and audit results to the IEC, Contractor, the ER and EPD or its delegated representative;

· Recommend suitable mitigation measures to the Contractor in the case of exceedance of Action and Limit Levels in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;

· Undertake regular on-site audits / inspections and report to the Contractor and the ER of any potential non-compliance;

· Follow up and close out non-compliance actions; and

· Adhere to the procedures for carrying out environmental complaint investigation.

Engineer or Engineer’s Representative

· Supervise the Contractor’s activities and ensure that the requirements in the EM&A Manual are fully complied with;

· Inform the Contractor when action is required to reduce impacts in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;

· Assist the Project Proponent in employing an IEC to audit the results of the EM&A works carried out by the ET;

· Comply with the agreed Event Contingency Plan in the event of any exceedance; and

· Adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigations.

Independent Environmental Checker

· Review the EM&A works performed by the ET (at not less than monthly intervals);

· Audit the monitoring activities and results (at not less than monthly intervals);

· Validate and con irm the accuracy of monitoring results, monitoring equipment, monitoring locations, monitoring procedures and location of sensitive receivers;

· Report the audit results to the ER and EPD in parallel;

· Review the EM&A reports (monthly and quarterly summary reports) submitted by the ET;

· Review the proposal on mitigation measures submitted by the Contractor in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;

· Check the mitigation measures submitted by the Contractor in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;

· Check the mitigation measures that have been recommended in the EIA Report and this Manual, and ensure they are properly implemented in a timely manner, when necessary; and

· Report the findings of site inspections and other environmental performance reviews to ER and EPD.

3.1.4 Sufficient and suitably qualified professional and technical staff shall be employed by the respective parties to ensure full compliance with their duties and responsibilities, as required under the EM&A programme for the duration of the Project.

3.1.5 The ET Leader shall have at least 7 years of experience in conducting EM&A for infrastructure projects. His / Her qualification shall be vetted by the ER and the IEC. And the IEC should possess at least 7 years of experience in EM&A.

4. Environmental Submission

4.1 Introduction

4.1.1 The Contractor shall prepare the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) (including a Waste Management Plan, WMP), Construction Method Statement prior to the commencement of construction works and obtain approval from ER and IEC and other relevant authorities to encompass the recommended environmental protection/mitigation measures with respect to their latest construction methodology and programme.

4.2 Environmental Management Plan

4.2.1 A systematic EMP shall be set up by the Contractor to ensure effective implementation of the mitigation measures, monitoring and remedial requirements presented in EIA, EM&A Manual and Environmental Mitigation Implementation Schedule (EMIS) (See Appendix 4.1). The ER and the IEC will audit the implementation status against the EMP and advise the necessary remedial actions required. These remedial actions shall be enforced by the ER through contractual means.

4.2.2 The EMP will require the Contractor (together with its sub-contractors) to define in details how to implement the recommended mitigation measures in order to achieve the environmental performance defined in the Hong Kong environmental legislation and the EIA documentation.

4.2.3 The review of on-site environmental performance shall be undertaken by ER and IEC through a systematic checklist and audit once the construction works commences. The environmental performance review programme comprises a regular assessment on the effectiveness of the EMP. Reference should be made to ETWBTC 19/2005 “Environmental Management on Construction Sites” or its latest versions, and any other relevant Technical Circulars.

4.3 Waste Management Plan

4.3.1 As part of EMP, the Contractor shall include WMP for the construction of the Project and prior to the commencement of construction works submit to the ER and IEC for approval. Where waste generation is unavoidable, the opportunities for recycling or reusing should be maximised. If wastes cannot be recycled, recommendations for appropriate disposal routes should be provided in the WMP. A method statement for stockpiling and transportation of the excavated materials and other construction wastes should also be included in the WMP and be approved before the commencement of construction works. All mitigation measures arising from the approved WMP shall be fully implemented.

4.3.2 For the purpose of enhancing the management of Construction and Demolition (C&D) materials including rock, and minimizing its generation at source, construction works would be undertaken in accordance with the Section 4.1.3 of Chapter 4 in the Project Administration Handbook for Civil Engineering Works (PAH).

4.4 Construction Method Statement

4.4.1 In case the Contractor would like to adopt alternative construction methods or implementation schedules, it is required to submit details of methodology and equipment to the ER for approval before the work commences. Any changes in construction method shall be reflected in a revised EMP or the Contractor will be required to demonstrate the manner in which the existing EMP should accommodate the proposed changes. The Contractor may need to apply for a Variation of Environmental Permit (VEP) from EPD before commencement of any construction activities.

5. Air Quality Impact

5.1 Introduction

5.1.1 The EIA has considered the potential air quality impacts during both the construction and operation phases of the project. Fugitive dust and vehicle emission would be the key impacts during the construction phase, while potential odour impact from the proposed sewage treatment works, Sewage Pumping Station, refuse collection points as well as the drainage channels and nullahs shall be effectively controlled during the operation phase.

5.2 Air Quality Parameters

5.2.1 Monitoring and audit of the Total Suspended Particulate (TSP) levels shall be carried out by the ET to ensure that construction works are not generating dust that exceeds the acceptable level. Timely action should be taken to rectify the situation if an exceedance is detected.

5.2.2 One-hour TSP shall be measured to indicate the impacts of construction dust on air quality. The TSP levels shall be measured by following the standard high volume sampling method as set out in the Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1 (Part 50), Appendix B. Upon approval of the IEC and the Environmental Protection Department (EPD), 1-hour TSP levels can be measured by direct reading method which are capable of producing comparable results as that by the high volume sampling method, to indicate short event impacts.

5.2.3 All relevant data including temperature, pressure, weather conditions, elapsed-time meter reading for the start and stop of the sampler, identification and weight of the filter paper, and any other local atmospheric factors affecting or affected by site conditions, special phenomena and work progress of the site etc., shall be recorded down in detail by the ET. A sample data sheet is shown in Appendix 5.1.

5.3 Monitoring Equipment

5.3.1 A high volume sampler (HVS) in compliance with the following specifications should be used for carrying out the 1-hour TSP monitoring:

· 0.6 - 1.7 m³ per minute (20 - 60 standard cubic feet per minute) adjustable low range;

· Equipped with a timing / control device with ± 5 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;

· Installed with elapsed-time meter with ± 2 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;

· Capable of providing a minimum exposed area of 406 cm²;

· Low control accuracy: ± 2.5% deviation over 24-hour sampling period;

· Equipped with a shelter to protect the filter and sampler;

· Incorporated with an electronic mass flow rate controller or other equivalent devices;

· Equipped with a low recorder for continuous monitoring;

· Provided with a peaked roof inlet;

· Incorporated with a manometer;

· Able to hold and seal the filter paper to the sampler housing at horizontal position;

· Easy to change the filter; and

· Capable of operating continuously for 24-hour period.

5.3.2 The ET is responsible for the provision, installation, operation, maintenance, and dismantling of the monitoring equipment. They shall ensure that sufficient number of HVSs with an appropriate calibration kit are available for carrying out the baseline monitoring, regular impact monitoring and ad hoc monitoring. The HVSs shall be equipped with an electronic mass flow controller and be calibrated against a traceable standard at regular intervals. All the equipment, calibration kit, filter papers, etc., shall be clearly labelled by the ET.

5.3.3 The flow-rate of the sampler before and after the sampling exercise with the filter in position shall be verified to be constant and be recorded in the data sheet as mentioned in Appendix 5.1.

5.3.4 If the ET proposes to use a direct reading dust meter to measure 1-hour TSP levels, they shall submit sufficient information to the IEC to prove that the instrument is capable of achieving a comparable result to the HVS. The instrument should also be calibrated regularly, and the 1-hour sampling shall be determined periodically by the HVS to check the validity and accuracy of the results measured by direct reading method.

5.3.5 Wind data monitoring equipment shall also be provided and set up at suitable locations for logging wind speed and wind direction near the dust monitoring locations. The equipment installation location shall be proposed by the ET and agreed with the Engineer and the IEC. For installation and operation of wind data monitoring equipment, the following points shall be observed:

· The wind sensors should be installed at 10m above ground so that they are clear of obstructions or turbulence caused by buildings;

· The wind data should be captured by a data logger, the data shall be downloaded for analysis at least once a month;

· The wind data monitoring equipment should be re-calibrated at least once every six months; and

· Wind direction should be divided into 16 sectors of 22.5 degrees each

5.3.6 In exceptional situations, the ET may propose alternative methods to obtain representative wind data upon approval from the Engineer and agreement from the IEC.

5.4 Laboratory Measurement / Analysis

5.4.1 A clean laboratory with constant temperature and humidity control, and equipped with necessary measuring and conditioning instruments to handle the dust samples collected shall be available for sample analysis, equipment calibration and maintenance. The laboratory should be Hong Kong laboratory accreditation scheme (HOKLAS) accredited.

5.4.2 If a site laboratory is set up or a non-HOKLAS accredited laboratory is hired for carrying out the laboratory analysis, the laboratory equipment shall be approved by the Engineer, in consultation with the IEC. Measurement performed by the laboratory shall be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the ER and IEC. The IEC shall regularly audit the measurement performed by the laboratory to ensure the accuracy of measurement results. The ET shall provide the Engineer and the IEC with one copy of the Title 40 of Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1 (Part 50), Appendix B for reference.

5.4.3 Filter paper of size 8” x 10” shall be labelled before sampling. It shall be a clean filter paper with no pin holes and shall be conditioned in a humidity-controlled chamber for over 24-hours and be pre-weighed before use for the sampling.

5.4.4 After sampling, the filter paper loaded with dust shall be kept in a clean and tightly sealed plastic bag. The filter paper shall then be returned to the laboratory for reconditioning in the humidity-controlled chamber followed by accurate weighing by an electronic balance with readout down to 0.1 mg. The balance shall be regularly calibrated against a traceable standard.

5.4.5 All the collected samples shall be kept in a good condition for 6 months before disposal.

5.5 Monitoring Locations

5.5.1 The selected monitoring locations are the worst potentially affected air sensitive receivers located in the vicinity of construction sites. The proposed air quality monitoring locations during construction phase are listed in Table 5.1 below and shown in Figure 5.1.

Table 5.1 Construction Dust Monitoring Locations

ID	ASR ID	Location	Impact Monitoring Period ^[1]
Existing Air Sensitive Receivers
AMC1	AH21	Ching Cheung House, Cheung Lung Wai Estate	Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 4
AMC2	AS21	HHCKLA Buddhist Wisdom Primary School	Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 4
AMC3	AV32	Ming Tak Court	Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3 and Stage 4
AMC4	AG12	The Hong Kong Golf Club	Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 4
Note: [1] The impact monitoring period is determined based on the distance between the stages of development and the monitoring locations. Impact monitoring is recommended when the stages in the vicinity of the monitoring locations are under construction. The stages of the Project will subject to adjustment based on the actual construction programme of the relevant contracts in the Construction Stage.

5.5.2 The status and locations of the air quality sensitive receivers may change after issuing this manual. In such case, the ET shall propose updated monitoring locations and seek approval from ER and the IEC, and agreement from the EPD on the proposal.

5.5.3 When alternative monitoring locations are proposed, the following criteria, as far as practicable, shall be followed:

i. At the site boundary or such locations close to the major dust emission source;

ii. Close to the air sensitive receivers as defined in the EIAO-TM;

iii. Proper position/ sitting and orientation of the monitoring equipment; and

iv. Take into account the prevailing meteorological conditions.

5.5.4 The ET shall agree with the ER in consultation with the IEC on the position of the HVS for the installation of the monitoring equipment. When positioning the samplers, the following points shall be noted:

i. A horizontal platform with appropriate support to secure the samplers against gusty wind shall be provided;

ii. The distance between the sampler and an obstacle, such as buildings, shall be at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above the sampler;

iii. A minimum of 2 metres of separation from walls, parapets and penthouses is required for rooftop samplers;

iv. A minimum of 2 metres of separation from any supporting structure, measured horizontally is required;

v. No furnace or incinerator flue is nearby;

vi. Air low around the sampler is unrestricted;

vii. The sampler is more than 20 metres from the dripline;

viii. Any wire fence and gate, to protect the sampler, shall not cause any obstruction during monitoring;

ix. Permission must be obtained to set up the samplers and to obtain access to the monitoring stations;

x. A secured supply of electricity is needed to operate the samplers; and

xi. No two samplers should be placed less than 2 metres apart.

5.5.5 Before construction in each month, the corresponding dust monitoring schedule shall be prepared by the ET based upon the construction schedule provided by the Contractor. The ET shall forward the IEC the impact monitoring programme such that he/she can conduct on-site audits to ensure accuracy of the impact monitoring results.

5.6 Baseline Monitoring

5.6.1 The ET shall carry out the baseline monitoring at all of the designated monitoring locations (Table 5.1) for at least 14 consecutive days prior to the commissioning of major construction works to obtain 1-hour TSP samples. The selected baseline monitoring stations should reflect baseline conditions at the impact monitoring stations. One-hour sampling should also be done at least 3 times per day while the highest dust impact is expected.

5.6.2 During the baseline monitoring, there should not be any major construction or dust generation activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations. Before commencing baseline monitoring, the ET shall inform the IEC of the baseline monitoring programme such that, if required, the IEC can conduct on-site audit to ensure accuracy of the baseline monitoring results.

5.6.3 In case the baseline monitoring cannot be carried out at the designated monitoring locations during the baseline monitoring period, the ET shall carry out the monitoring at alternative locations which can effectively represent the baseline conditions at the impact monitoring locations. The alternative baseline monitoring location shall be agreed with the Engineer and the IEC, and approved by the EPD.

5.6.4 In exceptional cases, when insufficient baseline monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET shall liaise with the IEC and EPD to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as a baseline reference and submit to Engineer and IEC for approval.

5.6.5 Ambient conditions may vary seasonally and shall be reviewed once every three months. If the ET considered that the ambient conditions have changed and a repeat of the baseline monitoring is required to be carried out for obtaining the updated baseline levels, the monitoring should be at times when the Contractor’s activities are not generating dust, at least in the proximity of the monitoring stations. Should change in ambient conditions be determined, the baseline levels and, in turn, the air quality criteria, should be revised. The revised baseline levels and air quality criteria should be agreed with the IEC and the EPD.

5.7 Impact Monitoring

5.7.1 The ET shall carry out impact monitoring during construction phase of the project. For 1-hour TSP monitoring, the sampling frequency of at least three times in every six-days should be undertaken when the highest dust impact occurs. In case of non-compliance with the air quality criteria, more frequent monitoring, as specified in the action plan in the following section, should be conducted within the specified timeframe after the result is obtained. This additional monitoring should be continued until the excessive dust emission or the deterioration in the air quality is rectified. The impact monitoring programme is summarized in Table 5.2.

Table 5.2 Summary of Construction Dust Monitoring Programme

Monitoring Period	Duration	Sampling Parameter	Frequency
Baseline Monitoring	Consecutive days of at least 2 weeks before commencement of major construction works	1-hour TSP	3 times per day
Impact Monitoring	Throughout the construction phase	1-hour TSP	3 times every 6 days

5.8 Event and Action Plan

5.8.1 The baseline monitoring results form the basis for determining the air quality criteria for the impact monitoring. The ET shall compare the impact monitoring results with air quality criteria set up for 1-hour TSP. Table 5.3 shows the air quality criteria, namely action and limit levels to be used.

Table 5.3 Action and Limit Levels for Air Quality (Dust)

Parameter

Action Level

Limit Level

1-hour TSP level inμg/m³

For baseline level <= 384 μg/m3, action level =

(baseline level × 1.3 + limit level)/2

For baseline level > 384 μg/m3, action level = limit level.

500 μg/m³

5.8.2 Should non-compliance of the air quality criteria occur, action in accordance with the action plan in Table 5.4 shall be carried out.

5.9 Mitigation Measures

5.9.1 Mitigation measures for construction phase air quality impacts and appropriate design for minimising potential operational odour impact have been recommended in the EIA Report. All the recommended mitigation measures and designs are detailed in the implementation schedule in Appendix 4.1.

Table 5.4 Event and Action Plan for Air Quality

Event	Action
Action level exceedance for one sample	1. Identify source, investigate the causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures; 2. Inform IEC and ER; 3. Repeat measurement to confirm finding; 4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily.	1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 2. Check Contractor’s working method.	1. Notify Contractor.	1. Rectify any unacceptable practice; 2. Amend working methods if appropriate.
Action level exceedance for two or more consecutive samples	1. Identify source; 2. Inform IEC and ER; 3. Advise the ER on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures; 4. Repeat measurements to confirm findings; 5. Increase monitoring frequency to daily; 6. Discuss with IEC and Contractor on remedial actions required; 7. If exceedance continues, arrange meeting with IEC and ER; 8. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.	1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 2. Check Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures; 4. Advise the ET on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures; 5. Supervise Implementation of remedial measures.	1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented.	1. Submit proposals for remedial actions to ER within 3 working days of notification; 2. Implement the agreed proposals; 3. Amend proposal if appropriate.
Limit level exceedance for one sample	1. Identify source, investigate the causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures; 2. Inform ER, Contractor and EPD; 3. Repeat measurement to confirm finding; 4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily; 5. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of the results.	1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 2. Check Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures; 4. Advise the ER on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures; 5. Supervise implementation of remedial measures.	1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented.	1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance 2. Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within 3 working days of notification; 3. Implement the agreed proposals; 4. Amend proposal if appropriate.
Limit level exceedance for two or more consecutive samples	1. Notify IEC, ER, Contractor and EPD; 2. Identify source; 3. Repeat measurement to confirm findings; 4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily; 5. Carry out analysis of Contractor’s working procedures to determine possible mitigation to be implemented; 6. Arrange meeting with IEC and ER to discuss the remedial actions to be taken; 7. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of the results; 8. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.	1. Discuss amongst ER, ET, and Contractor on the potential remedial actions; 2. Review Contractor’s remedial actions whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the ER accordingly; 3. Supervise the implementation of remedial measures.	1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. In consultation with the IEC, agree with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented; 4. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented; 5. If exceedance continues, consider what portion of the work is responsible and instruct the Contractor to stop that portion of work until the exceedance is abated.	1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance; 2. Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within 3 working days of notification; 3. Implement the agreed proposals; 4. Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control; 5. Stop the relevant portion of works as determined by the ER until the exceedance is abated.

Event

Action

IEC

Contractor

Action level exceedance for one sample

1. Identify source, investigate the causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures;

2. Inform IEC and ER;

3. Repeat measurement to confirm finding;

4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily.

1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET;

2. Check Contractor’s working method.

1. Notify Contractor.

1. Rectify any unacceptable practice;

2. Amend working methods if appropriate.

Action level exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

1. Identify source;

2. Inform IEC and ER;

3. Advise the ER on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures;

4. Repeat measurements to

confirm findings;

5. Increase monitoring frequency to daily;

6. Discuss with IEC and Contractor on remedial actions required;

7. If exceedance continues, arrange meeting with IEC and ER;

8. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.

1. Check monitoring data

submitted by ET;

2. Check Contractor’s working method;

3. Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures;

4. Advise the ET on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures;

5. Supervise Implementation of remedial measures.

1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing;

2. Notify Contractor;

3. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented.

1. Submit proposals for remedial actions to ER within 3 working days of notification;

2. Implement the agreed proposals;

3. Amend proposal if appropriate.

Limit level exceedance for one sample

1. Identify source, investigate the causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures;

2. Inform ER, Contractor and EPD;

3. Repeat measurement to confirm finding;

4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily;

5. Assess effectiveness of

Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of the results.

1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET;

2. Check Contractor’s working method;

3. Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures;

4. Advise the ER on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures;

5. Supervise implementation of remedial measures.

1. Confirm receipt of

notification of failure in

writing;

2. Notify Contractor;

3. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented.

1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance

2. Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within 3 working days of notification;

3. Implement the agreed proposals;

4. Amend proposal if appropriate.

Limit level exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

1. Notify IEC, ER, Contractor and EPD;

2. Identify source;

3. Repeat measurement to confirm findings;

4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily;

5. Carry out analysis of Contractor’s working procedures to determine possible mitigation to be implemented;

6. Arrange meeting with IEC and ER to discuss the remedial actions to be taken;

7. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of the results;

8. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.

1. Discuss amongst ER, ET, and Contractor on the

potential remedial actions;

2. Review Contractor’s remedial actions whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the ER accordingly;

3. Supervise the implementation of remedial measures.

1. Confirm receipt of

notification of failure in

writing;

2. Notify Contractor;

3. In consultation with the IEC, agree with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented;

4. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented;

5. If exceedance continues, consider what portion of the work is

responsible and instruct the Contractor to stop that portion of work until the exceedance is abated.

1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance;

2. Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within 3 working days of notification;

3. Implement the agreed proposals;

4. Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control;

5. Stop the relevant portion of works as determined by the ER until the exceedance is abated.

6. Noise Impact

6.1 Introduction

6.1.1 In the EIA Report, construction noise monitoring and regular site audit have been recommended to be carried out during construction phase to ensure the construction noise level will comply with the relevant noise criteria.

6.1.2 Road traffic noise levels should also be monitored at representative noise sensitive receivers (NSRs), which are in the vicinity of the recommended direct mitigation measures, upon the population intake of the proposed development. The purpose of the monitoring is to compare the measured noise levels with the predicted noise levels, appropriate conversion corrections shall be applied to allow for the traffic conditions at the time of measurement.

6.1.3 Monitoring of fixed noise sources of the mechanical ventilation system of public transport interchanges (PTIs) during the testing and commissioning stage was recommended to verify the compliance with the EIAO-TM criteria.

6.2 Noise Monitoring Parameters for Construction Noise

6.2.1 Construction noise level shall be monitored by the ET and shall be measured in terms of the A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level (L_eq). L_eq(_30-min) shall be used as the monitoring parameter for the time period between 0700 and 1900 hours on normal weekdays. For all other time periods, L_eq (_5-min) shall be employed for comparison with the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO) criteria. A sample data sheet is shown in Appendix 6.1.

6.2.2 As supplementary information for data auditing, statistical results such as L10 and L90 shall also be obtained for reference.

6.3 Monitoring Equipment for Construction Noise

6.3.1 As referred to in the technical memorandum (TM) issued under the NCO, sound level meters in compliance with the International Electrotechnical Commission Publications 651: 1979 (Type 1) and 804: 1985 (Type 1) specifications shall be used for carrying out the noise monitoring. Immediately prior to and following each noise measurement, the accuracy of the sound level meter shall be checked using an acoustic calibrator generating a known sound pressure level at a known frequency. Measurements may be accepted as valid only if the calibration level from before and after the noise measurement agrees to within 1.0 dB.

6.3.2 Noise measurements shall not be made in fog, rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5 m/s or wind with gusts exceeding 10 m/s. The wind speed shall be checked with a portable wind speed meter capable of measuring the wind speed in m/s.

6.3.3 The ET is responsible for the provision, installation, operation, maintenance, dismantling of the monitoring equipment. He shall ensure that sufficient noise measuring equipment and associated instrumentation are available for carrying out the baseline monitoring, regular impact monitoring and ad hoc monitoring. All the equipment and associated instrumentation shall be clearly labelled.

6.4 Monitoring Locations for Construction Noise

6.4.1 NSRs that are anticipated to have the highest construction noise level when without mitigation measures were selected as monitoring stations. The locations of construction noise monitoring stations are summarised in Table 6.1 and shown in Figure 6.1and Figure 6.1b.

Table 6.1 Proposed Construction Noise Monitoring Location

ID	NSR ID	Description	Impact Monitoring Period^[1]
Existing Noise Sensitive Receivers
NMC1	E01_CN05	Ching Cheung House, Cheung Lung Wai Estate	Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 4
NMC2	E04_CN01	HKCKLA Buddhist Wisdom Primary School	Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 4
NMC3	E09_CN05	Village Houses near Palmera Villa	Stage 1 and Stage 3
NMC4	E02_CN03	Little Sisters of the Poor Saint Joseph's Home for the Aged	Stage 5
NMC5	E28_CN06	Choi Po Court	Stage 5
Note: [1] The impact monitoring period is determined based on the distance between the stages of development and the monitoring locations. Impact monitoring is recommended when the stages in the vicinity of the monitoring locations are under construction. The stages of the Project will subject to adjustment based on the actual construction programme of the relevant contracts in the Construction Stage.

6.4.2 If the status or location of a NSR changes after issuing this manual, the ET shall propose the updated monitoring location and seek approval from the ER and agreement from the IEC and the EPD of the proposal to amend the monitoring location.

6.4.3 When alternative monitoring locations are proposed, the monitoring locations shall be chosen taking account of the following criteria:

a) All locations close to the major site activities that are likely to have noise impacts;

b) Close to the NSRs as defined in the EIAO-TM; and

c) Assurance of minimal disturbance to the occupants during monitoring.

6.4.4 The monitoring station shall normally be at a point 1 m from the exterior of the sensitive receiver building facade and be at a position 1.2 m above the ground. If there is problem with access to the normal monitoring position, an alternative position may be chosen, and a correction to the measurements shall be made. For reference, a correction of +3 dB(A) shall be made to the free field measurements. The ET shall agree with the IEC on the monitoring position and the corrections adopted prior to the commencement of the works. Once the positions for the monitoring stations are chosen, the baseline monitoring and the impact monitoring shall be carried out at the same positions.

6.5 Baseline Monitoring for Construction Noise

6.5.1 In accordance with Section 4.2 of Appendix D2 of Guidelines for Development Projects in Hong Kong published by EPD, Baseline noise monitoring before commencement of construction works is not normally required.

6.6 Impact Monitoring for Construction Noise

6.6.1 Construction noise monitoring should be carried out at the designated monitoring stations (Table 6.1) directly affected by the construction works once every week after the commencement of construction. During construction works, one set of Leq(30-min) measurement at each station between 0700 and 1900 hours on normal weekdays shall be taken. If construction works are extended to include works during the period between 1900 and 0700 hours, additional weekly impact monitoring shall be carried out during evening and night-time works. Applicable permits under NCO shall be obtained by the Contractor.

6.6.2 In case of non-compliance with the construction noise criteria, more frequent monitoring, as specified in the Event and Action Plan in Table 6.3, shall be carried out. This additional monitoring shall be continued until the recorded noise levels are rectified or proved to be unrelated to the construction activities.

6.7 Action and Limit Levels for Construction Noise

6.7.1 The Action and Limit levels for construction noise are defined in Table 6.2. Should non-compliance of the criteria occur, the ET, the IEC, the ER and the Contractor shall undertake their specified actions in accordance with the Event and Action Plan shown in Table 6.3.

Table 6.2 Action and Limit Levels for Construction Noise

Time Period	Action Level	Limit Level
0700 - 1900 hours on normal weekdays	When one documented complaint is received	75 dB(A) *

Notes:

If works are to be carried out during restricted hours, the conditions stipulated in the construction noise permit issued by the Noise Control Authority have to be followed.

* Reduce to 70 dB(A) for schools and 65 dB(A) during school examination periods.

6.8 Event and Action Plan for Construction Noise

6.8.1 Should non-compliance of the noise criteria occur, actions in accordance with the event and action plan in Table 6.3 shall be carried out.

Table 6.3 Event/Action Plan for Construction Noise

Event	Action
Event	ET	IEC	ER	Contractor
Action Level Exceedance	1. Notify IEC, ER and Contractor; 2. Carry out investigation; 3. Report the results of investigation to the IEC, ER and Contractor; 4. Discuss with the Contractor and formulate remedial measures; 5. Increase monitoring frequency to check mitigation effectiveness.	1. Review the analysed results submitted by the ET; 2. Review the proposed remedial measures by the Contractor and advise the ER accordingly; 3. Supervise the implementation of remedial measures.	1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. Require Contractor to propose remedial measures for the analysed noise problem; 4. Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented.	1. Submit noise mitigation proposals to IEC; 2. Implement nosie mitigation proposals
Limit Level Exceedance	1. Identify source; 2. Inform IEC, ER, EPD and Contractor; 3. Repeat measurements to confirm findings; 4. Increase monitoring frequency; 5. Carry out analysis of Contractor’s working procedures to determine possible mitigation to be implemented; 6. Inform IEC, ER and EPD the causes and actions taken for the exceedances; 7. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of the results; 8. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.	1. Discuss amongst ER, ET, and Contractor on the potential remedial actions; 2. Review Contractors remedial actions whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the ER accordingly; 3. Supervise the implementation of remedial measures.	1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. Require Contractor to propose remedial measures for the analysed noise problem; 4. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented; 5. If exceedance continues, consider what portion of the work is responsible and instruct the Contractor to stop that portion of work until the exceedance is abated.	1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance; 2. Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within 3 working days of notification; 3. Implement the agreed proposals; 4. Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control; 5. Stop the relevant portion of works as determined by the AP until the exceedance is abated.

Notes:

ET – Environmental Team; IEC – Independent Environmental Checker; ER – Engineer’s Representative

6.9 Noise Monitoring Parameters for Operational Road Traffic Noise

6.9.1 The ET should carry out monitoring of road traffic noise after the works under the Project are completed and upon the population intake of the proposed development. The road traffic noise during operation of the Project should be measured in terms of the A-weighted equivalent of L₁₀(_1-hour). During the road traffic noise measurement, traffic count should be undertaken concurrently. Supplementary information for data auditing and statistical results such as L_eq and L₉₀ should also be obtained for reference..

6.10 Monitoring Equipment for Operational Noise and Fixed Plant Noise

6.10.1 The requirement of monitoring equipment for both operational road traffic noise and fixed plant noise could be referred to Section 6.3.

6.11 Monitoring Locations for Operational Road Traffic Noise

6.11.1 Those most affected NSRs identified in the EIA report are selected as the noise monitoring locations in this EM&A Manual. The traffic noise monitoring locations during operation phase are listed in Table 6.4 and shown in Figure 6.2. In addition, noise monitoring shall be carried out for one year following the population intake of the proposed development. The locations for operational noise monitoring shall be defined during detailed design on the basis of the status of the most up-to-date information on proposed developments surrounding the Project.

Table 6.4 Proposed Road Traffic Noise Monitoring Locations

ID	NSR ID	Location	Proposed Direct Mitigation Measures ^[1]
NMO1	E01_TN04	Ching Cheung House, Cheung Lung Wai Estate	LNRS
NMO2	E03_TN01	TWGHs Ma Kam Chan Memorial Primary School	LNRS
NMO3	B04_TN01	Block 4, Public Housing Development	LNRS
NMO4	B01_TN03	Block 1, Public Housing Development	LNRS

Note:

[1] “LNRS” denotes Low Noise Road Surfacing. The locations of the proposed direct mitigation measures is indicated in Figure 6.3.

6.11.2 The status and locations of NSRs may change after issuing this Manual. In this event, the ET leader shall propose updated monitoring locations and seek approval from the IEC and agreement from the EPD of the proposal.

6.11.3 When alternative monitoring locations are proposed, the monitoring locations should be chosen based on the following criteria in that they should be:

· At locations facing proposed road sections with direct mitigation measures;

· Close to the NSRs; and

· For monitoring locations located in the vicinity of the sensitive receivers, care should be taken to cause minimal disturbance to the occupants during monitoring.

6.11.4 The monitoring station shall normally be at a point 1 m from the exterior of the sensitive receiver building facade and be at a position 1.2 m above the ground. If there is problem with access to the normal monitoring position, an alternative position may be chosen, and a correction to the measurements shall be made. For reference, a correction of +3 dB(A) shall be made to the free field measurements. The ET shall agree with the IEC on the monitoring position and the corrections adopted before commencement of monitoring.

6.12 Impact Monitoring for Operational Road Traffic Noise

6.12.1 The ET should prepare and deposit to the EPD, at least 6 months before the operation of the proposed roads under the Project, a monitoring plan for the purpose of overseeing the environmental performance of the development project by comparing the noise impact predictions with the actual impacts. The monitoring plan should contain monitoring locations, monitoring schedules, methodology of noise monitoring including noise measurement procedures, traffic counts and speed checks, and methodology of comparison with the predicted levels. The ET should implement the monitoring plan in accordance with the deposited monitoring plan unless with prior justifications. Monitoring details and results including the comparison between the measured noise levels and the predicted levels should be recorded in a report to be deposited with the EPD within one month of the completion of the monitoring. The report should be certified by the ET leader before it is deposited with the EPD.

6.12.2 Road traffic noise monitoring shall be carried out at all the designated road traffic noise monitoring stations upon the population intake of the proposed development. The following is an initial guide on the road traffic noise monitoring requirements during the operation phase. A sample data sheet is shown in Appendix 6.2.

· One set of measurements at the morning traffic peak hour on normal days;

· One set of measurements at the evening traffic peak hour on normal days;

· A concurrent census of traffic low and percentage of heavy vehicles shall be conducted for the Project Road and the existing road network in the vicinity of each measurement point;

· Average vehicle speed estimated for Project Road and the existing road network in the vicinity of each measuring point; and

· The two sets of monitoring data shall be obtained within the first year following the population intake of the proposed development.

6.12.3 Measured noise levels shall be compared with the predicted noise levels by applying appropriate conversion corrections to allow for the traffic conditions at the time of measurement.

6.13 Event and Action Plan for Operational Road Traffic Noise

6.13.1 The measured/monitored road traffic noise levels shall be compared with the predicted results and the predicted traffic low conditions (calculated noise levels based on concurrent traffic census obtained). In cases discrepancies are observed, explanation shall be given to justify the discrepancies.

6.14 Commissioning Test for Operational Fixed Plant Noise

6.14.1 The maximum allowable sound power levels of the identified fixed noise sources have been predicted in the EIA report. The contractor should implement and refine the specified sound power levels as appropriate to ensure compliances with the noise standards stipulated in the EIAO-TM and NCO for the fixed plant operations.

6.14.2 The contractor should also carry out a noise commissioning test for all fixed noise sources before operation of the Project, in order to ensure compliance of the noise levels with the EIAO-TM’s stipulated noise standard. The ET should prepare and deposit a commissioning test plan for the fixed plant noise to the EPD, at least six months before the operation of the planned fixed plants. The plan should contain locations, measurement schedules, methodology of noise measurement including noise measurement procedures and data analysis of measured noise level. The commissioning test should be certified by the ET leader and verified by the IEC before submission to the EPD.

6.15 Mitigation Measures

6.15.1 To alleviate the construction noise impact on the affected NSRs, practical mitigation measures including good site management practices, use of movable noise barrier and full enclosure, use of “quiet” plant and working method, construction noise impacts at all of the neighbouring residential noise sensitive uses , minimum separation distance between schools and critical works area during school examination period are recommended for the Project during construction phase.

6.15.2 For the operational traffic noise impact, a combination of noise mitigation measures has been recommended as direct and additional mitigation measures, including i) application of low noise road surfacing material along Po Kin Road and Ping Kong Road, ii) provision of acoustic window (baffle type) at planned residential blocks, iii) provision of Class Assessment Approach at the proposed school, iv) restriction on locating the more noise sensitive welfare uses at façade facing Ping Kong Road, for mitigating noise impacts from operational road traffic noise to nearby existing/planned NSRs.

6.15.3 For the fixed noise sources, mitigation measures such as provision of buffer distance, relocation of the sources, or environmentally friendly layout design should be incorporated in the layout plan for mitigating noise impacts from existing/planned fixed noise sources to nearby existing/planned NSRs.

6.15.4 The recommended maximum allowable Sound Power Level of the ventilation fans potentially to be installed at the PTIs should be reviewed with the final design of the PTIs during the detailed design stage. It is recommended that a canopy should be provided at the ingress and egress of the PTIs and solid panels to be erected as necessary next to the vehicle bays to screen the line-of-sight of the PTI from the nearby NSRs.

6.15.5 A Construction Noise Management Plan (CNMP) with reference to Section 8 and Annex 21 of the EIAO-TM as well as this EM&A Manual and the EIA Report should be prepared by the future contractor. In the CNMP, the inventory of noise sources should be verified, and the effectiveness and practicality of all identified measures for mitigating the construction noise impact should be assessed. Mitigation measures proposed in the EIA Report, such as the adoption of quiet construction methods and QPME, should be considered during the design and tendering stage of the Project. The CNMP should confirm the implementation of the mitigation measures, and submitted to EPD for approval six months prior to the commencement of construction. By referring to the measures proposed in the CNMP, the implementation schedule of mitigation measures should also be updated and reflected in the construction program accordingly.

6.15.6 All the recommended mitigation measures and designs are detailed in the implementation schedule in Appendix 4.1.

7. Water Quality Impact

7.1 Introduction

7.1.1 Potential water pollution sources from construction and operation of the Project have been identified including construction runoff, sewage, possible contamination due to oil and grease, use of fertilizers, pesticides and waste construction materials. Sewage generated during construction and operation will be disposed offsite and ultimately to Shek Wu Hui Sewage Treatment Works. Other sources of polluted water will be intercepted for reuse, or disposal as chemical waste, or discharge into stormwater system. It can be concluded that there is no significant water quality impact to the sensitive receivers provide that the mitigation measures are properly implemented during construction and operation phases.

7.1.2 As mitigation is required, site audit should be carried out to ensure the effectiveness of the mitigation measures.

7.2 Construction Phase

7.2.1 The Project is a land-based works. Construction site runoff would be collected, treated and discharged to specified location. Subject to the requirements in the effluent discharge licence to be issued under the Water Pollution Control Ordinance, regular water quality monitoring will be carried out at representative water discharge locations to ensure that relevant water quality standard can be met.

7.2.2 Weekly site audit should be carried out to check the implementation status of the recommended water quality impact mitigation measures throughout construction period.

7.3 Operation Phase

7.3.1 The sewerage and storm water system should be designed and constructed to separate the sewage from the uncontaminated surface runoff. As the Project area would be serviced by public sewers, no unacceptable water quality impact is anticipated. No operational phase monitoring or audit is proposed.

7.4 Mitigation Measures

7.4.1 The EIA proposed a number of construction phase mitigation measures. Some examples are provided below.

· To provide drainage channels in construction site

· To provide sand/silt removal facilities such as sand traps, silt traps and sediment basins

· To provide sufficient number of chemical toilets if necessary and employ licensed contractor for regular clean-up and maintenance

· To cover the slope and loose materials with tarpaulin before rainstorm and inspect the area afterwards

· To cover the manhole to prevent silty runoff from entering the foul sewer

7.4.2 Examples of operational phase mitigation measures are provided below:

· To maintain the separate sewerage and stormwater systems properly

· To clean and maintain all manholes, sand traps and oil interceptors regularly

· To clean the rubbish and litter regularly

7.4.3 All the recommended mitigation measures and designs are detailed in the implementation schedule in Appendix 4.1.

8. Sewage & Sewerage Treatment Implications

8.1 Introduction

8.1.1 An assessment of potential impacts due to the sewage arising from the proposed Project has been assessed in Section 6 of the EIA Report.

8.2 Mitigation Measures

Construction Phase

8.2.1 The sewage generated during the construction stage from the on-site workers will be collected in chemical toilets and disposed of off-site. Therefore, no sewerage impacts are expected from the site during the construction phase. As such, environmental monitoring and audit of the sewerage system is considered not required.

Operation Phase

8.2.2 The following general mitigation measures are to be considered in order to meet ‘no net increase in pollution loading’ in Deep Bay:

· Provision of blue-green drainage infrastructure which facilitates the infiltration of rainfall and the process of natural filtering to reduce the quantity and improve the quality of runoff;

· Adopt on-site greywater recycling to reduce discharge of sewer;

· Sewage collected from the on-site/surrounding STW will be treated to a standard suitable for recycle for non-potable use including flushing and irrigation;

· Upgrading the sewerage system for discharge into SWH STW or providing other sewage treatment/disposal facilities to ensure that there is sufficient capacity to cater for increased sewage effluent flows from the developments; and

· Provision of suitable measures to minimize the risk of emergency discharges of untreated sewage effluent and to ensure timely repair.

9. Waste Management Implications

9.1 Introduction

9.1.1 The quantity and timing for the generation of waste during the construction phase have been estimated. Measures including the opportunity for on-site sorting, reusing excavated materials etc., are devised in the construction methodology to minimise the surplus materials to be disposed off-site. Proper disposal of chemical waste and asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) should be disposed via a licensed waste collector.

9.2 Site Audit Requirements

9.2.1 Regular audits and site inspections should be carried out during construction phase by the ET to ensure that the recommended good site practices and other recommended mitigation measures are properly implemented by the Contractor. The audits should concern all aspects of on-site waste management practices including waste generation, storage, recycling, transport and disposal. Apart from site inspection, documents including licences, permits, disposal and recycling records should be reviewed and audited for compliance with the legislation and contract requirements.

9.2.2 The requirements of the environmental audit programme are set out in Section 15 of this Manual. The audit programme will verify the implementation status and evaluate the effectiveness of the mitigation measures.

9.3 Mitigation Measures

9.3.1 Mitigation measures for waste management recommended in the EIA Report should form the basis of the Waste Management Plan (WMP) to be developed by the Contractor in the construction stage (as discussed in Section 4.3). Appendix 4.1provides the implementation schedule of the recommended mitigation measures during construction and operation phases.

9.3.2 Wastes generated during the construction activities should be audited regularly by the ET to determine if waste is being managed in accordance with approved procedures and the site WMP. The audit should look at all aspects of on-site waste management practices including waste generation, storage, recycling, transport and disposal. Apart from site inspection, documents including licences, permits, disposal and recycling records should be reviewed and audited for compliance with the legislations and contract requirements. In addition, the routine site inspections should check the implementation of the recommended good site practices, waste reduction measures, and other waste management mitigation measures.

9.3.3 The ET shall ensure all licenses and permits for waste disposal are obtained by the contractor in accordance with the following Ordinances:

· Waste Disposal Ordinance (Cap. 354);

· Waste Disposal (Chemical Waste) (General) Regulation (Cap. 354C);

· Waste Disposal (Clinical Waste) (General) Regulation (Cap. 354O);

· Waste Disposal (Charges for Disposal of Construction Waste) Regulation (Cap. 354N);

· Land (Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap. 28);

· Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132); and

· Public Cleansing and Prevention of Nuisances Regulation (Cap. 132BK).

9.3.4 With the appropriate handling, storage and removal of waste arisings during the construction and operation of the Project, the potential to cause adverse environmental impacts would be minimized. During the site inspections, the ET shall pay special attention to the issues relating to waste management and check whether the Contractor has implemented the recommended good site practices, waste reduction measures and other mitigation measures.

10. Land Contamination Impact

10.1 Introduction

10.1.1 The EIA report has reviewed the potential contaminated land uses associated with the Project, within the land contamination assessment area and the potential impacts on the future land uses.

10.2 Mitigation Measures

10.2.1 The land contamination assessment examined the potential contaminative land use within the assessment area and their potential impacts to future land use. As the identified potentially contaminated sites would still be in operation, site re-appraisal and a submission of supplementary Contamination Assessment Plan (CAP) covering the entire assessment area including associated off-site works area is therefore required upon the land has been reverted to Government.

10.2.2 Following the approved supplementary CAP, site investigations shall be conducted and results obtained shall be documented in a Contamination Assessment Report / Remediation Action Plan (CAR/RAP) for EPD’s approval. If contaminated soil and/or groundwater are identified at the Project Site, remediation shall be carried out according to EPD’s approved RAP and the RR should be submitted to EPD for agreement after completion of the remediation works. No development works shall be commenced prior to EPD’s endorsement of the RR.

10.2.3 Remediation works, if necessary, shall be carried out at the contaminated sites identified in the future contamination assessment as detailed in Chapter 8 of the EIA Report prior to commencement of construction. Mitigation measures outlined in the future RAP approved by EPD shall be implemented to throughout the remediation works (Appendix 13.1). The EM&A requirements shall be carried out in the form of regular site inspection to ensure the recommended mitigation measures are properly implemented and findings of the audit shall be reported in the EM&A reports.

10.2.4 As the Project Site is located on an area with potentially high ambient arsenic levels, a health risk assessment (HRA) will be carried out to identify exposure paths of inhalation (dust) and ingestion of arsenic instead. This will be in a form of literature research to determine the best approach and methodology for the HRA, including any codes of practices, guidelines and applicable with reference to the approved North East New Territories New Development Area (EIA Report No. AEIAR-175/2013).

10.2.5 With the establishment and implementation of the CAP and the supplementary CAP, to define the nature, extent and degree of contamination; together with results from site investigation to provide sufficient information for the development of the CAR and/or RAP, no adverse residual impacts are anticipated from the construction and operation of Project activities as the land contamination assessment and remediation would be completed before the commencement of any construction works.

11. Ecology

11.1 Introduction

11.1.1 The EIA has recommended mitigation measures to avoid, minimize and compensate the identified potential ecological impacts arising from the proposed Project. With the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures, no unacceptable adverse residual impacts would be anticipated. Nonetheless, EM&A is considered necessary during construction of the Project.

11.2 Mitigation Measures

11.2.1 Avoidance of recognized sites of conservation importance – All the recognized sites of conservation importance, including SSSI, Country Park, Conservation Areas, Long Valley Nature Park have been avoided and will not be encroached by any developments under the present Project.

11.2.2 Avoidance of important habitats –Important habitats including Fung Shui Wood and the egretries outside the Project Site would not be impacted. Within the Project Site, majority of the habitat types with medium or above ecological values (e.g. swampy woodland and marsh) have also been avoided.

Considerations for Impact Minimization

11.2.3 Minimization of habitat loss and impacts to species of conservation importance –Selection of Sub-Area 1 as the development area, which is located at the northernmost of the Project Site and is more disturbed with fewer species of conservation importance recorded, could avoid as far as possible and minimize potential impacts to existing ecological resources, than having development in other Sub-Areas.

11.2.4 Although the major development will be limited to Sub-Area 1 of the Project Site, the layout plan of the development, i.e. location and extent of the proposed development, has been fine-tuned to further minimize the area of woodland loss, i.e. the mixed woodland in the southeast of Sub-Area 1 (next to Ming Tak Court). Besides, further minimizing direct impacts to the woodland habitats inside Sub-Area 1 as far as practicable during the detailed design stage is also recommended.

11.2.5 Restricted working hours – Working hours will be restricted during construction phase to minimize potential disturbance to utilization of the preserved habitats by nocturnal animals. Construction hours will be restricted to daytime and no night works with strong flush lights will be conducted. While the normal works hours are 0700 – 1900, works hours of powered mechanical equipment near the preserved habitats within the Project Site will be restricted to at least one hour before subset, following the proposed restriction hours derived from the earliest subset time in each month in the years of construction. The proposed restriction of works hours would slightly extend the construction programme, but would provide sufficient time for powered mechanical equipment to halt before sunset when nocturnal animals in particular mammals might be in search for food.

11.2.6 Minimization of water quality impact – As the aquatic/wetland habitats are away from Sub-Area 1, the measures stated in the chapter of water quality impact assessment are adequate to protect the aquatic/wetland habitats and the associated wildlife. For example, the site practices outlined in ProPECC PN 1/94 “Construction Site Drainage” should be followed as far as practicable to minimize surface runoff and the chance of erosion during construction. Effluent discharged from the construction site should comply with the standards stipulated in the TM-DSS. While the runoff will be intercepted by properly designed and managed silt traps at appropriate spacing so allow drain into drainage system during operational phase.

11.2.7 Use of noise barriers/acoustic screens – In order to further minimise the overall impacts on the nearby sensitive habitats and associated wildlife, particularly to the woodland habitats in the Project Site, temporary noise barriers with absorptive materials of about 4m high will be erected along the sensitive sides of the works area, throughout the construction phase. The purpose is to screen the construction noise and human disturbance from the sensitive habitats and associated wildlife during construction phase.

11.2.8 Adequate noise barriers should also be provided for percussive piling works, to further minimise the construction noise disturbance from these construction activities. Movable noise barriers should be provided and acoustic mat should be provided to the piling plants around the rig. The contractor should provide enclosure for construction equipment, especially static plants (e.g. generator), as appropriate to minimise the noise disturbance as far as practicable.

11.2.9 Use of quality powered mechanical equipment – The Quality Powered Mechanical Equipment (QPME) system was developed by EPD to benchmark construction equipment items that are new, notably quieter, more environmentally friendly and efficient by QPME Labels. The contractor should source QPMEs for construction as far as practicable to further minimise the overall construction noise and other disturbance to the nearby sensitive habitats and associated wildlife to the maximum practical extent.

11.2.10 Careful planning of lighting - Although the potential impact of light glare from artificial lightings on habitats near Sub-Area 1 is considered minor, to take a precautionary approach, it is recommended that light glare in the operational phase can be further reduced through careful planning of lighting, e.g. control on light level generated from public roads and footpaths within Sub-Area 1, directing the lighting inwards to the proposed development but not to the nearby habitats in Sub-Area 2, provision of screen planting to avoid light glare from external lighting to the habitats in Sub-Area 2 where nocturnal fauna were recorded.

Mitigation

11.2.11 Compensation woodland planting - Within Sub-Area 1 of the Project Site, although some of the mixed woodland can be minimized under the present proposed layout (i.e. 2.85ha out of 3.72ha in Sub-Area 1), to take a conservative approach, all the mixed woodland and woodland in Sub-Area 1 (i.e. about 4.11ha, with 3.72 ha mixed woodland and 0.39 ha woodland) are assumed to be lost during construction phase at this stage for compensation planning. The actual loss however should be smaller when the layout is confirmed during the detailed design stage with the consideration of minimizing direct impacts to woodland habitats.

11.2.12 The turfgrass within the Project Site is suitable for woodland compensation. The advantage of selecting the existing turfgrass is that there are existing woodlands immediately beside the turfgrass, planting new woodland areas adjoining existing woodlands would form an ecological linkage and increase the overall habitat size and hence would help to enhance the biodiversity and ecological values in the long run.

11.2.13 Large scale of planting works might affect the hydrology for the sensitive wetland habitats i.e. marsh and swampy woodland in Sub-Area 4, it is recommended the location for woodland compensation should avoid Sub-Area 4 to preserve the hydrology that supports the wetland habitats. Hence, turfgrass of Sub-Area 2 and northern part of Sub-Area 3 are recommended for woodland compensation, which have flat topography and with enough sunlight. The proposed location of woodland compensation (~5.1 ha, larger than the woodland loss of 4.1ha) is shown in Figure 11.1. Besides, according to LVIA, tree felling will be required and the compensatory trees are proposed to be planted in Sub-Area 3 within PDA, which is overlapped with the proposed location of woodland compensation shown in Figure 11.1. The exact sites for woodland compensation and compensatory planting are subject to future site planning during detailed design stage.

11.2.14 The feasibility of commencing woodland compensation planting as soon as practicable should be considered. The tree species to be planted should mostly be native species recorded in the assessment area for woodland compensation, and the tree species can also make reference to the existing tree species at Lin Tong Mei Fung Shui Wood. Early and timely arrangement with forest nursery for propagation of the seedlings should be made to ensure the availability of both the species and the quantity required. A woodland compensation plan and tree compensation plan with the consideration of the impacts to wetland hydrology in Sub-Area 4 will be submitted.

11.2.15 Preservation and/or transplantation of plant species of conservation importance - Preservation and/or transplantation of plant species of conservation importance, including Aquilaria sinensis, Ardisia villosa, Geedorum densiflorum and Ilex graciliflora will be conducted before site formation works. Priority should be given to on-site preservation, especially for large sized individuals, and followed by transplantation, which is more feasible for small-sized individuals/seedlings. The proposed transplanted site will be at the same location as the woodland compensation area in Sub-Area 3 that is recommended in LVIA. An updated vegetation survey will be conducted and a detailed transplantation plan with the consideration of the impacts to wetland hydrology in Sub-Area 4 will be submitted in the detailed design stage.

11.2.16 Management Plan - Although artificial habitats such as turfgrass and plantation were identified within Sub-Area 2 to Sub-Area 4, the ecological values are ranked medium or medium to high due to the presence of some natural habitats that supported a variety of wildlife including some species of conservation importance. Sub-Areas 2 to 4 are intended to be zoned as “Other Specified Uses” annotated “Recreation cum Conservation” under Outline Zoning Plan. Hence, Sub-Area 2 to Sub-Area 4 should be conserved and a management plan will be formulated with the aims to manage the human activities conducted in Sub-Area 2 to Sub-Area 4 and conserve the ecologically sensitive habitats and species of conservation importance from disturbance. The management plan should consider of but not limited to the operational hours, the impacts to moths and other nocturnal wildlife (e.g. closure of Sub-Area 2 to 4 at night and no flush light can be deployed etc.), management of the wetlands for water dependent fauna such as odonates, hydrology of wetland, as well as planting larval food plants for the butterfly species of conservation importance recorded within the assessment area (e.g. Troides Helena, Pachliopta aristolochiae, Catochrysops Strabo, Megisba Malaya (mentioned in EIA Study Brief but not recorded in present study). With the future management plan, the potential impacts from indirect disturbance (e.g. noise, traffic and human disturbance) to the important habitats in Sub-Area 2 to Sub-Area 4 and the habitats in the vicinity as well as the species of conservation importance can be further reduced. A monitoring programme should be included in the management plan to evaluate the effectiveness of the management strategies.

11.2.17 Defining and Maintaining Construction Site Boundary - Site hoarding should be erected along the interface with woodland habitats in particular the boundary between Sub-Area 1 and Sub-Area 2 as well as the preserved woodlands within Sub-Area 1, to properly delineate the works area and screen and minimize the potential disturbance due to construction activities to the nearby habitats and associated fauna during construction phase.

11.2.18 Provision of Temporary Drainage System to Protect Sensitive Habitats - During the construction phase, a temporary drainage system would be implemented to ensure that the surface runoff would not be released to nearby sensitive habitats (e.g. woodlands, wetland habitats). DSD Technical Circular No. 2/2004 and ETWB No. 5/2005 which set out for the protection of natural rivers and streams from adverse impacts arising from construction works should be followed during construction works near streams. In accordance with Practice Note for Professional Persons on Construction Site Drainage, Environmental Protection Department, 1994 (ProPECC PN 1/94), best management practices should be implemented on site as far as practicable to control site runoff and drainage at all work sites during construction. The best practices are detailed in the chapter of water quality impact assessment.

11.2.19 Other Site Practices - Standard site practices listed as follows would be implemented to minimize potential impacts, including dust, noise and site runoff, on the surrounding environment.

· Regular checking should be undertaken to ensure that the work site boundary is not exceeded and that no damage occurs to surrounding areas;

· Implementation of mitigation measures specified in ProPECC PN 1/94 to control site runoff and drainage during construction;

· Implementation of noise control measures to reduce impacts of construction noise to wildlife habitats adjacent works area;

· Implementation of dust control measures at all construction sites to minimize dust nuisance to adjacent wildlife habitats during construction activities;

· Construction debris and spoil should be covered up and/or properly disposed of as soon as possible to avoid being washed into nearby waterbodies by rain;

· Good site practice and site precautionary measures will also be implemented to avoid the potential impact due to site runoff. Construction effluent, site runoff and sewage should be properly collected and/or treated. Wastewater from a construction site should be managed with the following approach in descending order;

· Proper locations for discharge outlets of wastewater treatment facilities well away from the natural streams/rivers should be identified;

· Effluent monitoring should be incorporated to make sure that the discharged effluent from construction site meets the effluent discharge guidelines; and

· Supervisory staff should be assigned to station on site to closely supervise and monitor the works.

11.3 Construction Phase Monitoring and Audit

Audit Requirement

11.3.1 Site audits shall be undertaken at least monthly during the construction phase of the Project to check the proper implementation and maintenance of recommended mitigation measures.

11.3.2 A project organisation consisting of the Engineer Representative (ER), Independent Environmental Checker (IEC), Environmental Team (ET), Project Proponent (CEDD) and Contractor should be established to take on the responsibilities for environmental protection for the Project.

Monitoring for Compensatory Planting Woodland

11.3.3 Monitoring on the compensatory planting woodland should be performed on regular basis after the first planting, to monitor the survival of trees and establishment of the woodland including wildlife use. Survival and establishment of planted woodland at the planting locations will be monitored quarterly for 3 years. The monitoring surveys shall be carried out by qualified botanist(s). Survey in each woodland planting location will commence three months after completion of planting. Selected individuals of each planted species will be tagged and percentage survival computed. Supplementary planting will be recommended when necessary. Wildlife use of the planted vegetation will be monitored.

Monitoring of Transplanted Plant Species of Conservation Importance

11.3.4 Surveys will be conducted to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the preservation and transplantation programme. Survival and conditions of transplanted plant individuals as well as individuals to be preserved in-situ will be monitored. For transplanted individuals, the monitoring will be two years, and the frequency will be monthly for the first year, and then quarterly for the second year. For the in-situ preserved plant individuals, the monitoring will be conducted monthly throughout the construction period. The monitoring surveys shall be carried out by qualified botanist(s). The condition of the tree protection zone, if any, should be regularly checked.

Monitoring of Ecological Conditions under the Proposed Management Plan

11.3.5 A monitoring programme should be included in the management plan to evaluate the effectiveness of the management strategies. An ecological baseline information including habitat conditions and the conditions of the species of conservation importance shall be updated prior to the operation of Sub-Area 2-4. During the operation of Sub-Area 2-4, regular monitoring of the ecological conditions as well as the conditions of the species of conservation importance shall also be monitored.

11.4 Operational Phase Monitoring and Audit

11.4.1 As the potential impacts to ecology during operational phase are all considered minor or insignificant, operational phase monitoring and audit are not required. Monitoring of the effectiveness of the management measures for Sub-Area 2 to Sub-Area 4 will be formulated.

12. Fisheries

12.1 Introduction

12.1.1 Based on the EIA, fish ponds are present within 500m area from the boundary of the PDA located southeast of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD)’s Tai Lung Experimental Station. However, no significant impacts arising from construction and operational phases of the Project on pond fisheries are anticipated, no specific monitoring programme for fisheries resources is required. Good site practices for the control and operation of construction projects as detailed in Section 7 of this Manual shall be fully implemented to minimize impacts on water resources for pond fish culture in the Project Area or its vicinity.

13. Landscape and visual impacts

13.1 Introduction

13.1.1 The EIA has recommended EM&A for landscape and visual mitigation measures to be carried out during the design, construction and operational stages of the project. The design, implementation and maintenance of landscape mitigation measures must be checked to ensure all the mitigation measures are fully implemented and that potential conflicts between the proposed landscape measures and any other project works and operational requirements are resolved at the earliest possible stage and without compromise to the intention of the mitigation measures. In addition, implementation of the mitigation measures recommended by the EIA report will be monitored through the site audit programme.

13.2 Audit Requirement

13.2.1 A Registered Landscape Architect (RLA) should monitor all of the landscape and visual mitigation measures undertaken during the construction phase and throughout establishment period of the operation phase to check if the proposed landscape and visual mitigation measures are properly implemented and maintained as per the design intended.

13.2.2 Site inspection and audit should be undertaken by the RLA at least once every two weeks throughout the construction phase and at least one a month during establishment period. Ad-hoc inspections and audits should also be carried out in case of tree felling, transplantation, adverse weather where significant damage to existing trees is anticipated, and when significant environmental problems are identified.

13.2.3 For all soft landscape works, involving landscape and visual mitigation measures such as tree transplantation and compensatory planting and woodland restoration, there should be at least a 12 months establishment period and maintenance which will commence once soft landscaping in an area has been planted.

13.3 Construction and Post-construction Phase

13.3.1 A specialist Landscape Sub-contractor should be employed for the implementation of landscape construction works and subsequent maintenance operations during a 12-month establishment period. A Registered Landscape Architect should be employed to supervise the specialist Landscape Sub-contractor for the implementation of landscape works, both hard and soft landscape included.

13.3.2 Mitigation measures undertaken by both the Main Contractor(s) and the specialist Landscape Sub-contractor during the construction phase and the first year of post-construction stage will be audited by the Registered Landscape Architect, to ensure all the mitigation measures are compliance with the design intent. Site inspections should be undertaken at least once every two weeks throughout the landscaping plants establishment period when planting works are being undertaken.

13.3.3 A tree survey should be prepared for DLO submission and for the purpose of existing trees protection purpose. Removal of existing trees should be minimized. The Contractor should consider employing a certified arborist when sizable and valuable existing tree(s) protection of transplant is required.

13.3.4 A broad scope of audit / inspections for construction and post-construction phase auditing are detailed below.

· Advance Tree Planting - monitoring of implementation and maintenance of planting, and against potential incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution, surface erosion, etc;

· Protection of trees to be retained- identification and demarcation of trees / vegetation to be retained, erection of physical protection (e.g. fencing), monitoring against potential incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution, surface erosion, etc.;

· Clearance of existing vegetation - identification and demarcation of trees / vegetation to be cleared, checking of extent of works to reduce damage, monitoring of adjacent areas against potential incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution, surface erosion, etc.;

· Transplanting of trees - identification and demarcation of trees / vegetation to be transplanted, monitoring of extent of pruning / lifting works to reduce damage, timing of operations, implementation of the stages of preparatory and translocation works, and maintenance of transplanted vegetation, etc.;

· Plant supply - monitoring of operations relating to the supply of specialist plant material (including the collecting, germination and growth of plants from seed) to ensure that plants will be available in time to be used within the construction works;

· Soiling, planting - monitoring of implementation and maintenance of soiling and planting works and against potential incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution, surface erosion, etc.;

· Sensitive Design of Building Block - implementation and maintenance of mitigation measures, to ensure conformity with the agreed designs;

· Establishment Works (12 Months)- monitoring of implementation of maintenance operations during the establishment period.

13.4 Event and Action Plan

13.4.1 In the event of non-compliance, the responsibilities of the relevant parties are detailed in the Event /Action plan provided on Table 13.1.

13.5 Mitigation Measures

13.5.1 The Landscape and Visual Assessment of the EIA report recommended a series of mitigation measures to accommodate the landscape and visual impacts of the proposed development. These measures are summarized in Table 13.2 below.

Table 13.1 Event and Action Plan for Landscape and Visual Monitoring

Event

Action

IEC

Contractor

Design Check

1. Check final design conforms to the requirements of EP and prepare report.

1. Check report.

2. Recommend

remedial design if necessary.

1. Undertake remedial

design if necessary.

Non-conformity

on one occasion

1. Inform the IEC, ER and the Contractor

2. Discuss remedial actions with IEC, ER and Contractor

3. Monitor remedial actions until rectification has been completed

1. Check inspection

report.

2. Check Contractor’s

working method

3. Discuss with ET, ER

and Contractor on

possible remedial

measures.

4. Advise ER on

effective of proposed

remedial measures.

5. Check

implementation

1. Confirm receipt of notification of non-conformity in writing

2. Review and agree on the remedial measures proposed by the Contractor

3. Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

1. Identify source and investigate the non- conformity

2. Amend working methods agreed with ER as appropriate

3. Rectify damage and undertake any necessary replacement

Repeated Non-conformity

1. Identify sources

2. Inform the Contractor, IEC and ER

3. Discuss inspection frequency

4. Discuss remedial actions with IEC, ER and Contractor

5. Monitor remedial actions until rectification has been completed

6. If non-conformity

stops, cease additional monitoring

1. Check inspection report

2. Check Contractor’s working method

3. Discuss with ET, ER and Contractor on possible remedial measures

4. Advise ER on effectiveness of proposed remedial measures

1. Notify the Contractor

1. In consultation with the ET and IEC, agree with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented

2. Supervise implementation of remedial measures

1. Identify source and investigate the non-conformity

2. Amend working methods agreed with ER as appropriate

3. Rectify damage and undertake any necessary replacement. Stop relevant portion of works as determined by ER until the non-conformity is abated.

Table 13.2 Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

ID No.

Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measure

Funding Agency

Implement-ation Agency

Management Agency

Maintenance Agency

Construction Phase

CM1

Preservation of Existing Vegetation – Any existing vegetations, trees and tree of particular interest (TPI) not affected by the Project and within 5m offset from the PDA Boundary shall be carefully preserved and protected in accordance with DEVB TCW No. 4/2020 and the latest Guidelines on Tree Preservation During Development by GLTMS of DEVB. If needed, they shall be transplanted to a suitable location within the PDA as far as feasible.

Proposed Treat-ment	Location	Tree Types	No. of Tree (s)	Sub-total
Retain	Sub-Area 1	TPIs (mature trees with DBH>=1000mm)	11	267
		TPIs (rare/protected species with DBH>=95mm)	5
		TPIs (rare/protected species with DBH<95mm)	9
		Trees other than TPIs	242
	Sub-Area 2 - 4	TPIs (mature trees with DBH>=1000mm)	41	3090
		TPIs (rare/protected species with DBH>=95mm)	80
		TPIs (rare/protected species with DBH<95mm)	274
		Other trees (in tree groups)	2695
	Adjacent area	TPIs (mature trees with DBH>=1000mm)	1	24
		Trees other than TPIs	23
	Sub-total		3381
Transplant	Sub-Area 1	TPIs (mature trees with DBH>=1000mm)	2	34
		TPIs (rare/protected species with DBH>=95mm)	10
		TPIs (rare/protected species with DBH<95mm)	22
	Sub-total		34
Remove	Sub-Area 1	TPIs (mature trees with DBH>=1000mm)	11	954
		TPIs (rare/protected species with DBH>95mm)	0
		Trees other than TPIs (excluding Leucaena leucocephala)	880
		Leucaena leucocephala	63
	Adjacent area	Trees other than TPIs	35	42
		Leucaena leucocephala	7
	Sub-total		996
Total			4411

In addition to the above, there are 56 nos. of plants (non-tree species) with conservation value found within the PDA. In Sub-Area 1, 3 nos. are proposed to be retained, 9 nos. are proposed to be transplanted. The remaining amount of plants with conservation value found in Sub-Area 2-4 is proposed to be retained.

In Sub-area 2, a 1-storey building and the associated vehicle road may possibly be provided nearby the existing pumping station for the future use of Sub-areas 2 to 4, 2 nos. of TPIs (T33 and T61) would be affected by the proposed layout. However, this layout is indicative for demonstrating possible form of recreational facilities for preliminary assessment at this stage only. The exact layout of the proposed 1-storey building and the associated vehicle road shall be subjected to further review in detail design stage, conflict to the existing trees in Sub-areas 2-4 shall be avoided.

CEDD

Contractor (CEDD)

CM2

Control of Night-time Lighting Glare - All night time lighting shall be avoided as far as possible. All lights should be directed light and no light glare shall illuminate directly outside the site boundary.

CEDD

Contractor (CEDD)

CM3

Good Site Practice – Construction areas’ control, such as reducing the extent of working areas, temporary working areas, storage area and shortening construction period, shall be enforced to minimise potential landscape and visual impact arising from construction activities. The proposed site should reduce topographical / landform changes to reduce disturbance with the natural terrain. Earthworks and engineered slopes should be designed to be visually interesting and compatible with the surrounding landscape, mimic contouring and terrain. Temporary landscape treatment such as hydroseeding temporary stockpiles is recommended. Protection measures for the nearby water bodies, will be conducted in accordance with ETWB TCW 5/2005. Avoidance of polluted liquid or solid wastes falling into river waters will be implemented with reference to ProPECC PN1/94.

CEDD

Contractor (CEDD)

CM4

Erection of Decorative Screen Hoarding - Site hoardings shall be painted in a colour that is compatible with the surroundings and shall screen the views to the construction works. Hoarding should be taken down at the end of the construction period.

CEDD

Contractor (CEDD)

Operation Phase

OM1

Landscape Treatment in Sub-Areas 2-4 – Location and species selection of trees and shrub planting should be considered in the landscape design as part of the new amenity and/or ecological planting in Sub-Area 2 to 4. Existing vegetation should be retained where possible and additional planting should prioritize in existing golf greens. Native species and existing species with proven ecological value to existing habitat, should be given priority consideration. Approximate 929 nos. of compensatory trees will be planted in Sub-Area 3 [1] and tree species will refer to the existing tree species (e.g. Cinnamomum camphora, Sterculia lanceolate, Acronychia pedunculata and Machilus chekiangensis)) found at Lin Tong Mei Fung Shui Wood located to the west of the Project Site.

Sub-areas 2 - 4 will be designated as “Other Specified Uses” annotated “Recreation cum Conservation”, primary intention is to conserve the existing natural landscape and ecological features, to provide space recreational and ancillary facilities with minimal new structure/change to existing site conditions, serving the needs of the general public (subject to further design development). For trees to be planted on slope, tree planting will be conducted in accordance to GEO Publication No. 1/2011.

CEDD

Contractor (CEDD)

Proposed usage of Sub-Area 2-4 has not been confirmed yet, the proposed maintenance party is subject to further confirmation.

OM2

Landscape Treatment within the Public Housing Development – Planting should be provided on the podium and at-grade where practicable. Vertical greening and screening planting should be considered to soften the built structures. Blue-green infrastructure and sustainable landscape design, such as zero-irrigation, swales and rain gardens, should be taken into consideration.

The choice of planting species selected should take careful consideration to the GMP of the North District, Street Tree Selection Guide by GLTMS, DEVB and the surrounding environment.

The number of new trees within Public Housing Development will be confirmed by HD/ HA in due course.

Contractor (HD)

OM3

Sensitive Design of Building Blocks – A staggered building height and form can enhance visual interest and quality. The building height should correspond with the nearby high-rise buildings and the natural landforms. Sensitive treatment and design to external finished of the built structure to ensure elements’ colour, texture and tonal quality are compatible with the existing landscape and visual context. Lighting design should avoid potential glare impacts to sensitive receivers.

Contractor (HD)

OM4

Compensatory Tree Planting – Trees felled due to the Development will be compensated as far as practicable in accordance with Development Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No. 4/2020. The proposed compensatory trees species will refer to the existing tree species (e.g Cinnamomum camphora, Sterculia lanceolate, Acronychia pedunculata and Machilus chekiangensis) found at Lin Tong Mei Fung Shui Wood and will be planted in Sub-Area 3 [2]. Detailed investigation and survey of tree felling in the receptor site in Sub-Area 3 to accommodate the planting of compensatory tree and transplanting trees shall be carried out during the investigation, detailed design and construction stage.

CEDD

Contractor (CEDD)

Proposed usage of Sub-Area 2-4 has not been confirmed yet, the proposed maintenance party is subject to further confirmation.

14. Cultural Heritage Impact

14.1 Introduction

14.1.1 The cultural heritage impact assessment includes both built heritage and archaeology. Mitigation will be required for built heritage and it is anticipated that potential archaeology will be affected by the proposed development. The extent both laterally and significance of the potential archaeology needs to be established in an archaeological field survey prior to other investigations including ground investigation, investigation for land contamination and so on in order not to disturb the site. Mitigation such as rescue excavation or archaeological monitoring programmes may be required after the archaeological field survey results are known.

14.2 Mitigation Measures

Built Heritage

14.2.1 The proposed development in Sub-Area 1 and minor works in Sub-Areas 2 to 4 will directly and adversely affect the Fanling Golf Course, The Hong Kong Golf Club, a New Item (N340) to be graded by AAB. The impact of the proposed works is subject to the further assessment pending to the grading of the golf course conducted by AAB and mitigation measures, where necessary, will be proposed to minimise the impact on the Fanling Golf Course.

14.2.2 Four graded historic buildings, not-graded historic buildings and majority of clan graves are located at sufficient distance from the proposed development within Sub-Areas 2 to 4 to avoid direct impacts. The proposed development, subject to final design, consists of continuation of green environment with minor works and no visual or construction impacts on built heritage in particular on Grade 3 Half-way House of HKGC is expected. This is, however, subject to the final design.

14.2.3 A single clan grave (G-01) cannot be retained in situ and will require relocation. Full cartographic and photographic record of the grave (if relocated) to achieve preservation by record will be required prior to the construction phase. The report will have to be submitted to AMO for review and agreement. Clan Graves G-02 to G-07 will require protective measures depending on the final design of the development.

Archaeology

14.2.4 A detailed Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA), including an archaeological field survey, of select areas within Sub-Area 1, in select areas of Sub-Areas 2 to 4 and proposed associated and/or drainage and minor road upgrade works will be required if development is confirmed at Investigation Phase (and prior to detailed design stage) and if works are determined to affect areas with no or limited existing impacts. The archaeological survey and archaeological impact assessment should be conducted prior to other investigations including ground investigation, investigation for land contamination and so on in order not to disturb the site and the archaeological field survey. Based on the result of the detailed archaeological impact assessment, mitigation measures, if necessary, should be recommended in prior agreement with AMO. No construction works would be commenced prior to completion of the detailed archaeological impact assessment and the agreement of mitigation measures if needed.

15. Site Environmental Audit

15.1 Site Inspection

15.1.1 Site inspection provides a direct means to initiate and enforce specified environmental protection and pollution control measures. These shall be undertaken routinely to inspect construction activities in order to ensure that appropriate environmental protection and pollution control mitigation measures are properly implemented. Site inspection is one of the most effective tools to enforce the environmental protection requirements at the works area.

15.1.2 The ET shall be responsible for formulating the environmental site inspection programme as well as the deficiency and action reporting system, and for carrying out the site inspections. The proposal for rectification, if any, should be prepared and submitted to the ET Leader and IEC by the Contractor..

15.1.3 Regular site inspections shall be carried out and led by the ER and attended by the Contractor and ET at least once per week during the construction phase. The areas of inspection shall not be limited to the environmental situation, pollution control and mitigation measures within the site. It should also review the environmental situations outside the works area which is likely to be affected, directly or indirectly, by the construction site activities of the Project. The ET shall make reference to the following information in conducting the inspection. During the inspection, the following information should be referred to:

a) EIA Report recommendations on environmental protection and pollution control mitigation measures;

b) works progress and programme;

c) individual works methodology proposals (which shall include the proposal on associated pollution control measures);

d) contract specifications on environmental protection;

e) relevant environmental protection and pollution control legislations; and

f) previous site inspection results.

15.1.4 The Contractor shall keep the ER and ET Leader updated with all relevant environmental related information on the construction contract necessary for him to carry out the site inspections. Site inspection results and associated recommendations for improvements to the environmental protection and pollution control efforts should be recorded and followed up by the Contractor in an agreed time-frame. The Contractor shall follow the procedures and time-frame as stipulated in the environmental site inspection, and the deficiency and action reporting system formulated by the ET, to report on any remedial measures subsequent to the site inspections.

15.1.5 The ER, ET and the Contractor should also carry out ad-hoc site inspections if significant environmental problems are identified. Inspections may also be required subsequent to receipt of a valid environmental complaint, or as part of the investigation work, as specified in the Event and Action Plan for the EM&A programme.

15.2 Environmental Compliance

15.2.1 There are statutory requirements on environmental protection and pollution control requirements with which construction activities must comply.

15.2.2 In order to ensure the works comply with corresponding requirements, all method statements of works should be submitted by the Contractor to the ER for approval and to the ET Leader to ensure sufficient environmental protection and pollution control measures have been included. The Environmental Mitigation Implementation schedule (EMIS) is summarised in Appendix 4.1. Any proposed changes to the mitigation measures shall be certified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC as conforming to the relevant information and recommendations contained in the EIA Report.

15.2.3 The ER and ET shall also review the progress and programme of the works to check that relevant environmental legislations have not been violated, and that any foreseeable potential for violating laws can be prevented.

15.2.4 The Contractor should provide the update of the relevant documents to the ET Leader so that checking can be carried out. The document shall at least include the updated Works Progress Reports, updated Works Programme, method statements, any application letters for different licences/permits under the environmental protection laws, and copies of all valid licences/permits. The site diary and environmental records shall also be available for inspection by the relevant parties.

15.2.5 After reviewing the document, the ET shall advise the IEC and Contractor of any non-compliance with legislative requirements on environmental protection and pollution control so that they can timely take follow-up actions as appropriate. If the follow-up actions may still result in potential violation of environmental protection and pollution control requirements, the ER and ET should provide further advice to the Contractor to take remedial action to resolve the problem.

15.2.6 Upon receipt of the advice, the Contractor shall undertake immediate actions to correct the situation. The ER and ET shall follow up to ensure that appropriate action has been taken in order to satisfy legal requirements.

15.3 Choice of Construction Method

15.3.1 At times during the construction phase the Contractor may submit method statements for various aspects of construction. This state of affairs would only apply to those construction methods that the EIA has not imposed conditions while for construction methods that have been assessed in the EIA, the Contractor is bound to follow the requirements and recommendations in the EIA Study. The Contractor’s options for alternative construction methods may introduce adverse environmental impacts into the Project. It is the responsibility of the Contractor and ET, in accordance with established standards, guidelines and EIA Study recommendations and requirements, to review and determine the adequacy of the environmental protection and pollution control measures in the Contractor’s proposal in order to ensure no unacceptable impacts would result. To achieve this end, the ET shall provide a copy of the Proactive Environmental Protection Proforma as shown in Appendix 15.1 to the IEC for approval. The IEC should audit the review of the construction method and endorse the proposal on the basis of no adverse environmental impacts.

15.4 Environment Complaints

15.4.1 The following procedures should be undertaken upon receipt of any environmental complaint:

· The Contractor to log complaint and date of receipt onto the complaint database and inform the ER, ET and IEC immediately;

· The Contractor to investigate, with the ER and ET, the complaint to determine its validity, and assess whether the source of the problem is due to construction works of the Project with the support of additional monitoring frequency and stations, if necessary;

· The Contractor to identify remedial measures in consultation with the IEC, ET and ER if a complaint is valid and due to the construction works of the Project;

· The Contractor to implement the remedial measures as required by the ER and to agree with the ET and IEC any additional monitoring frequency and stations, where necessary, for checking the effectiveness of the remedial measures;

· The ER, ET and IEC to review the effectiveness of the Contractor's remedial measures and the updated situation;

· The ET to undertake additional monitoring and audit to verify the situation if necessary, and oversee that circumstances leading to the complaint do not recur;

· If the complaint is referred by the EPD, the Contractor to prepare interim report on the status of the complaint investigation and follow- up actions stipulated above, including the details of the remedial measures and additional monitoring identified or already taken, for submission to EPD within the time frame assigned by the EPD; and

· The ET to record the details of the complaint, results of the investigation, subsequent actions taken to address the complaint and updated situation including the effectiveness of the remedial measures, supported by regular and additional monitoring results in the monthly EM&A reports.

16. Reporting

16.1 General

16.1.1 Reports can be provided in an electronic medium upon agreeing the format with the ER and EPD. This would enable a transition from a paper/historic and reactive approach to an electronic/real time proactive approach. All the monitoring data (baseline and impact) shall also be submitted on diskettes or other approved media. The formats for air quality, noise and water quality monitoring data to be submitted shall be separately agreed.

16.1.2 The ET is responsible for establishing and maintaining a dedicated website throughout the entire construction period for publishing all the relevant environmental monitoring data (including but not limited to the baseline and impact monitoring). The ET shall propose the format and functionality of the website for agreement with the ER and IEC prior to publishing of data. Once the monitoring data are available (e.g. noise, dust, water quality etc) and vetted by the IEC, the ET is responsible to upload the relevant data to the dedicated website.

16.1.3 Types of reports that the ET shall prepare and submit include baseline monitoring report, monthly EM&A report and final EM&A review report. In accordance with Annex 21 of the EIAO-TM, a copy of the monthly and final review EM&A reports shall be made available to the Director of Environmental Protection.

16.2 Baseline Monitoring Report

16.2.1 The baseline monitoring report shall include at least the following:

i. Up to half a page executive summary;

ii. brief project background information;

iii. drawings showing locations of the baseline monitoring stations;

iv. monitoring results (in both hard and diskette copies) together with the following information:

· monitoring methodology;

· name of laboratory and types of equipment used and calibration details;

· parameters monitored;

· monitoring locations;

· monitoring date, time, frequency and duration; and

· quality assurance (QA)/quality control (QC) results and detection limits.

v. details of influencing factors, including;

· major activities, if any, being carried out on the site during the period;

· weather conditions during the period; and

· other factors which might affect monitoring results.

vi. determination of the Action and Limit Levels for each monitoring parameter and statistical analysis of the baseline data;

vii. revisions for inclusion in the EM&A Manual; and

viii. comments, recommendations and conclusions.

16.3 Monthly Monitoring Reports

16.3.1 The results and findings of all EM&A work required in the Manual shall be recorded in the monthly EM&A reports prepared by the ET and endorsed by the IEC. The EM&A report shall be prepared and submitted to EPD within 10 working days of the end of each reporting month, with the first report due the month after construction commences. Copies of each monthly EM&A report shall be submitted to the following parties: the IEC, the ER and EPD. Before submission of the first EM&A report, the ET shall liaise with the parties on the required number of copies and format of the monthly reports in both hard copy and electronic medium.

16.3.2 The ET should prepare and submit a Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report at least one month before commencement of construction of the Project. Copies of the Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report should be submitted to the IEC, ER and EPD. The ET should liaise with the relevant parties on the exact number of copies require.

16.3.3 The ET shall review the number and location of monitoring stations and parameters every six months, or on as needed basis, in order to cater for any changes in the surrounding environment and the nature of works in progress.

First Monthly EM&A Report

16.3.4 The first monthly EM&A report shall include at least the following:

i. Executive summary (1-2 pages);

· breaches of Action and Limit levels;

· complaint log;

· notifications of any summons and successful prosecutions;

· reporting changes; and

· future key issues.

ii. Basic project information:

· project organization including key personnel contact names and telephone numbers;

· programme;

· management structure; and

· works undertaken during the month.

iii. Environmental status

· advice on the status of statutory environmental compliance such as the status of compliance with the environmental permit (EP) conditions under the EIA Ordinance, submission status under the EP and implementation status of mitigation measures;

· works undertaken during the month with illustrations (such as location of works, daily excavation rate, etc.); and

· drawings showing the project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations (with co-ordinates of the monitoring locations).

iv. A brief summary of EM&A requirements including;

· all monitoring parameters;

· environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

· vent-Action Plans;

· environmental mitigation measures, as recommended in the project EIA Study final report; and

· environmental requirements in contract documents.

v. Implementation status

· advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control / mitigation measures, as recommended in the project EIA Report.

vi. Monitoring result (in both hard and diskette copies) together with the following information:

· monitoring methodology;

· name of laboratory and types of equipment used and calibration details;

· monitoring parameters;

· monitoring locations;

· monitoring date, time, frequency, and duration;

· weather conditions during the period;

· any other factors which might affect the monitoring results; and

· QA / QC results and detection limits.

vii. Reporting on non-compliance, complaints, and notifications of summons and successful prosecutions:

· record of all non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

· record of all complaints received (written or verbal) for each media, including locations and nature of complaints investigation, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken, results and summary;

· record of all notification of summons and successful prosecutions for breaches of current environmental protection / pollution control legislation, including locations and nature of the breaches, investigation, follow-up actions taken, results and summary;

· review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliances, complaints, summons and prosecutions including review of pollution sources and working procedures; and

· description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and deficiency reporting and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance.

viii. Others

· an account of the future key issues as reviewed from the works programme and work method statements;

· advice on the solid and liquid waste management status;

· record of any project changes from the originally proposed as described in the EIA (e.g. construction methods, mitigation proposals, design changes, etc.); and

· comments (for examples, effectiveness and ef iciency of the mitigation measures), recommendations (for examples, any improvement in the EM&A programme) and conclusions.

Subsequent monthly EM&A Report

16.3.5 Subsequent monthly EM&A report shall include at least the following:

i. Executive summary (1-2 pages):

· breaches of Action and Limit levels;

· complaint log;

· notifications of any summons and successful prosecutions;

· reporting changes; and

· future key issues.

ii. Basic project information:

· project organization including key personnel contact names and telephone numbers;

· programme;

· management structure;

· works undertaken during the month; and

· any updates as needed to the scope of works and construction methodologies.

iii. Environmental status:

· works undertaken during the month with illustrations (such as location of works, daily excavation rate, etc.); and

· drawings showing the project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations.

iv. Implementation status:

· advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures, as recommended in the project EIA Report.

v. Monitoring result (in both hard and diskette copies) together with the following information:

· monitoring methodology;

· name of laboratory and types of equipment used and calibration details;

· monitoring parameters;

· monitoring locations;

· monitoring date, time, frequency, and duration;

· weather conditions during the period;

· any other factors which might affect the monitoring results; and

· QA / QC results and detection limits.

vi. Reporting on non-compliance, complaints, and notifications of summons and successful prosecutions:

· record of all non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

· review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliances, complaints, summons and prosecutions including review of pollution sources and working procedures; and

· description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and deficiency reporting and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance.

vii. Others:

· an account of the future key issues as reviewed from the works programme and work method statements;

· advice on the solid and liquid waste management status;

· record of any project changes from the originally proposed as described in the EIA (e.g. construction methods, mitigation proposals, design changes, etc.); and

· comments (for examples, effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation measures), recommendations (for examples, any improvement in the EM&A programme) and conclusions.

viii. Appendices:

· Action and Limit levels;

· graphical plots of trends of the monitoring parameters at key stations over the past four reporting periods for representative monitoring stations annotated against the following:

a) major activities being carried out on site during the period;

b) weather conditions during the period; and

c) any other factors that might affect the monitoring results.

· monitoring schedule for the present and next reporting period;

· cumulative statistics on complaints, notifications of summons and successful prosecutions; and

· outstanding issues and deficiencies.

16.4 Final EM&A Review Reports

General

16.4.1 The EM&A programme for construction stage should be terminated upon the completion of the construction activities, while the EM&A programme for operation stage should be terminated upon the completion of operation monitoring.

16.4.2 The proposed termination should only be implemented after the proposal has been endorsed by the IEC, the Engineer and the Project Proponent followed by approval from the Director of Environmental Protection.

Final EM&A Review Report for Construction Stage

16.4.3 The final EM&A review report for construction stage (to be submitted after completion of construction activities) should contain at least the following information:

i. Executive summary (1-2 pages):

ii. Drawings showing the project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations;

iii. Basic project information including a synopsis of the project organization, contacts of key management, and a synopsis of work undertaken during the course of the project or past twelve months;

iv. A brief summary of EM&A requirements including:

· environmental mitigation measures for construction stage, as recommended in the project EIA Report;

· environmental impact hypotheses tested;

· environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

· all monitoring parameters;

· Event and Action Plans.

v. A summary of the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures for construction stage, as recommended in the project EIA Report and summarized in the updated implementation schedule;

vi. Graphical plots and the statistical analysis of the trends of monitoring parameters over the course of the project, including:

· The major activities being carried out on site during the period;

· weather conditions during the period; and

· any other factors which might affect the monitoring results.

vii. A summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

viii. A review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance including review of pollution sources and working procedures as appropriate;

ix. A description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance;

x. A summary record of all complaints received (written or verbal) for each media, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up actions taken and results;

xi. A review of the validity of EIA predictions for construction stage and identification of shortcomings in EIA recommendations;

xii. Comments (for example, a review of the effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation measures and of the performance of the environmental management system, that is, of the overall EM&A programme for construction stage); and

xiii. Recommendations and conclusions (for example, a review of success of the overall EM&A programme for construction stage to cost-effectively identify deterioration and to initiate prompt effective mitigatory action when necessary).

Final EM&A Review Report for Construction Stage

16.4.4 The final EM&A review report for operation stage (to be submitted after completion of operation monitoring) should contain at least the following information:

i. Executive summary (1-2 pages):

ii. Drawings showing the project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations;

iii. Basic project information including a synopsis of the project organization, contacts of key management, and a synopsis of work undertaken during the course of the project or past twelve months;

iv. A brief summary of EM&A requirements including:

· environmental mitigation measures for construction stage, as recommended in the project EIA Report;

· environmental impact hypotheses tested;

· environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

· all monitoring parameters;

· Event and Action Plans;

v. A summary of the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures for operation stage, as recommended in the project EIA Report and summarized in the updated implementation schedule;

vi. Graphical plots and the statistical analysis of the trends of monitoring parameters over the course of the project, including:

· the major activities being carried out on site during the period;

· weather conditions during the period; and

· any other factors which might affect the monitoring results;

vii. A summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

viii. A review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance including review of pollution sources and working procedures as appropriate;

ix. A description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance;

x. A summary record of all complaints received (written or verbal) for each media, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up actions taken and results;

xi. A review of the validity of EIA predictions for operation stage and identification of shortcomings in EIA recommendations;

xiii. Recommendations and conclusions (for example, a review of success of the overall EM&A programme for operational stage to cost-effectively identify deterioration and to initiate prompt effective mitigatory action when necessary).

16.5 Data Keeping

16.5.1 No site-based documents (such as monitoring field records, laboratory analysis records, site inspection forms, etc.) are required to be included in the monthly EM&A reports. However, any such document shall be well kept by the ET and be ready for inspection upon request. All relevant information shall be clearly and systematically recorded in the document. Monitoring data shall also be recorded in magnetic media form, and the software copy must be available upon request. Data format shall be agreed with EPD. All documents and data shall be kept for at least one year following completion of the construction contract and one year following completion of the operation phase monitoring for construction phase EM&A and operational EM&A respectively.

16.6 Interim Notifications of Environmental Quality Limit Exceedances

16.6.1 With reference to the Event and Action Plans, when the environmental quality performance limits are exceeded and if they are proven to be valid, the ET should immediately notify the IEC and EPD, as appropriate. The notification should be followed up with advice to the IEC and EPD on the results of the investigation, proposed actions and success of the actions taken, with any necessary follow-up proposals. A sample template for the interim notification is presented in Appendix 16.1.

[1] The exact nos. and locations of compensatory tree planting shall be subjected to further review and to be provided under the compensatory tree planting plan in later design stage.

[2] The exact nos. and locations of compensatory tree planting shall be subjected to further review and to be provided under the compensatory tree planting plan in later design stage.